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Adenoidectomy

Definition

Adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of the adenoids. Adenoids are made of tissue located in the back of the nose near the throat. They are thought to be involved in developing immunity against infections in children.

Reasons for Procedure

Adenoidectomy is usually done to remove enlarged adenoids that are causing sleep apnea due to a blockage in the nasal passage. It may also be used to treat long-term sinus infections and recurrent ear infections.

Possible Complications

Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:

Bleeding

Infection

Dehydration from difficulty taking fluids

Re-growth of adenoid tissue

A permanent change in voice

Reaction to anesthesia

Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about ways to manage factors that may increase your risk of complications such as:

Do not eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours prior to the procedure.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia
is used. It will block any pain and keep you asleep through the procedure.

Description of the Procedure

The adenoids will be surgically removed through the mouth. A scalpel or another type of tool will be used to remove the adenoid tissue. An electrical current can also be used. Sometimes, the adenoids are removed through the nose. Gauze packs will be placed at the site of the procedure to prevent bleeding.

Radiofrequency ablation
is a type of procedure that uses heat to destroy tissue. It may be used to reduce the volume and size of the adenoids. This method often has less bleeding. It also seems to cause less pain.

Immediately After Procedure

You will be monitored in a recovery room until the anesthesia wears off.

How Long Will It Take?

Less than 45 minutes

How Much Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications.

Average Hospital Stay

It may be possible to leave on the same day as the procedure. Your doctor may choose to keep you overnight if there are complications.

Post-procedure Care

At the Care Center

During your stay, the care center staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

Washing their hands

Wearing gloves or masks

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

Washing your hands often and reminding your healthcare providers to do the same

Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks

At Home

Recovery will take 7-14 days. After the procedure, you may have:

Light bleeding

Nasal stuffiness or drainage

Sore throat

Bad breath

Difficulty swallowing

Ear or throat pain

Stiff or sore neck

Nasal speech

To help relieve some discomfort and speed recovery:

Eat light meals of soft foods for the first several days.

Avoid hot liquids.

Take prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection.

Take pain medication as needed.

Avoid swimming and rough or intense exercise.

Avoid forceful nose blowing.

Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor if any of these occur:

A sudden increase in the amount of bleeding from the mouth or nose; If your child is swallowing a lot, check the back of their throat with a flashlight to look for blood

Redness, swelling, increasing pain, or any discharge from the nose or mouth

Increased swelling or redness of the eyes

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Pain that cannot be controlled with the medications you were given

Noisy or difficulty breathing

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.